Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau state expressed his concerns over the economic hardship faced by Nigerians and attributed the situation to the previous administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari. During the swearing-in ceremony of 22 Special Advisers and heads of government agencies, the governor stated that President Bola Tinubu inherited the worst-performing economy in Nigeria’s democratic history since 1999.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized the need to focus on governance after elections, regardless of political affiliations. He revealed that the current administration inherited an economy burdened by issues such as excessive money printing, estimated at N30 trillion, and pre-selling of crude oil that was yet to be extracted. These factors contributed to the devaluation of the national currency and triggered riots and food intercepts in some states.
To address these challenges, Governor Mutfwang announced his administration’s plans to establish a special agro-processing zone in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. The project, which will be undertaken in collaboration with the African Development Bank, aims to attract an investment of $300 million and boost agricultural production.
The governor called upon the newly appointed officials to rise to the challenge and work together to improve the situation for the benefit of the people. He stressed the importance of securing funds and urged the advisers to think creatively to generate resources for development and wealth creation. Furthermore, he emphasized the need for local constituency leaders to align their efforts with the government’s agenda.
Governor Mutfwang expressed his confidence in the abilities of the appointees, even though some of them were relatively unknown to him until shortly before their appointments. He urged them to add value to governance and contribute to the overall development of the state.
During the ceremony, the governor also swore in several individuals to key positions, including special advisers and heads of government agencies. These appointments cover a range of areas such as national assembly matters, community relations, policy and governance, youth mobilization and engagement, and social welfare.
George Daika, the Special Adviser to the governor on National Assembly Matters, assured the public that the appointees would not disappoint, pledging their commitment to serving the people.
The governor’s address highlighted the pressing economic challenges inherited from the previous administration and outlined plans to promote agricultural development and generate wealth. The new appointees have been tasked with finding innovative ways to secure funds and contribute to the overall progress of Plateau state.